Electric Scooter Accident Claims – Quick Answer
Electric scooter accidents can involve riders, pedestrians, motorists, road hazards, hire companies, councils or property owners. Compensation options depend on how the accident happened, where it occurred and whether another person or organisation contributed to the injury.
Because e-scooter rules and claim pathways can be complex, injured people should keep evidence and seek advice early.
E-scooter injury claims depend on the accident setting, the parties involved and whether another party’s actions or omissions contributed to the harm.
E-Scooter Accident Evidence
- Accident location: Road, footpath, private property or hire zone.
- Scooter details: Owned, hired, shared or employer-provided.
- Other parties: Drivers, pedestrians, councils, businesses or hire companies.
- Photos and video: Scene, scooter, hazard and injuries.
- App/trip records: Hire trip logs or receipts if relevant.
Can you claim compensation after an electric scooter accident?
You may have compensation options if another party contributed to the e-scooter accident or injury.
Who may be liable for an e-scooter accident?
Liability may involve a rider, driver, hire company, council, property owner or another responsible party.
A few months ago we posted an article about the prevalence of electric scooters in Paris and what would happen if someone in NSW was injured on or by an electric scooter. Here is an electric scooters update.
Well, Tom is on another holiday and reports from England that the UK Department for Transport has banned electric scooters from the roads and footpaths and had written to retailers advising them to remind purchasers of this when they are buying an electric scooter. This action has been taken following the tragic death in London of YouTube star Emily Hartridge who collided with a truck while riding her electric scooter and the serious head injury occasioned to a 14 year old boy who collided with a bus, also in London.
Are e-scooter claims motor accident or public liability claims?
The pathway depends on whether a motor vehicle, public place, private property or other party was involved.
In NSW electric scooters are still banned from our roads and footpaths although there are trials taking place in Manly and Bondi. In one social media report of which we are aware an electric scooter user (not in those areas) was fined $2,500 for five offences including:
- Using an Unlicensed Vehicle
- Using an Uninsured Motor Vehicle
- Using an Unregistered Motor Vehicle on road
- Driving a Motor Vehicle on the footpath
- Motor Bike Rider not wearing an approved helmet
We will keep you informed of any changes in the law or any relevant cases that arise. Our motor vehicle accident and public liability lawyers can help identify the right claim pathway.
What should you do after an electric scooter accident?
Seek medical care, report the incident, take photos and keep trip or hire records if available.
How can Stacks Goudkamp help?
Stacks Goudkamp can assess the accident and advise which compensation pathway may apply.
Written by Belinda Cassidy
Belinda Cassidy holds the position of Special Counsel at Stacks Goudkamp. She had previously held the position of Principal Claims Assessor at the State Insurance Regulatory Authority (SIRA) for 18 years, and currently holds an appointment as a Claims Assessor under the Motor Accidents Compensation Act.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I claim compensation after an electric scooter accident?
You may be able to claim if another driver, rider, property owner, hire company or public authority contributed to the accident.
Are electric scooter accidents motor accident claims?
They can be in some circumstances, particularly if a motor vehicle was involved. Other claim pathways may also apply.
What should I do after an e-scooter accident?
Get medical help, record the location, take photos, collect witness details and keep app or hire records.
Can pedestrians claim after being hit by an e-scooter?
Pedestrians may have options if the rider or another party acted negligently and caused injury.
How can Stacks Goudkamp help with an e-scooter injury?
Stacks Goudkamp can review the circumstances and advise whether compensation may be available.
